Wired Recessed Door/Window Sensors

Door and window sensors represent some of the most common sensors used with security systems. These devices let an alarm system know when a door or window has been opened. A door and window contact works using a sensor and a magnet. The magnet and the sensor should be in direct contact when the door or window is closed. Opening the door or window will cause the magnet and sensor to separate. This will release a metal reed switch inside the sensor. The sensor will then alert the system to the open door or window.

Recessed contacts are unique because they are out of open view. This is different from surface-mounted contacts, which are visible from the outside. Recessed contacts are hidden because the sensor and magnet are inserted into holes that are drilled into the door or window and its frame. The sensor goes inside the door or window frame, and the magnet does inside the door or window itself. You would only be able to see the recessed contact by looking at the side of the door or window. Otherwise, it will be hidden.

Although the recessed contacts offer a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, there is a downside to using these devices. These devices are more difficult to install than surface-mount sensors. This is because holes need to be drilled into the door or window and its frame. You will need to make sure the holes you are drilling are the suitable size for the sensor and the magnet. Refer to the device specifications to determine the ideal sized holes.

However, since these are hardwired sensors, you will already need to run wires from the panel to the contact. This can be much more time-consuming and challenging than drilling holes for recessed contacts. In most case, a user will only use hardwired contacts if they have a hardwired system. Otherwise, it is usually more convenient and more practical to use wireless sensors. You can even use wireless sensors hardwired systems if you add a wireless receiver.

The good thing about hardwired recessed door and window sensors is that they are extremely affordable. The fact that these are purely mechanical devices without the need for wireless signal transmissions helps to keep costs down. A hardwired contact will only use two wires for connectivity with the panel. Both of these wires are for data transmission. No electrical power is needed, as everything is done mechanically.

Overall, hardwired recessed door and window sensors are great for DIY users and professional installers who want a more integrated setup. They are more difficult to install when compared with their wireless and surface-mounted brethren, but they are the perfect solution for many situations. You can find all our great wired recessed door and window sensors on this page.